Mike Griffith's Report Card: UT vs. Alabama

Erik Ainge struggled to get into a rhythm and had trouble finding open receivers. Ainge's precision was a bit off on a couple of occasions. A miscue involving the signaling in of a play proved costly on a late interception, a pass Ainge later said he shouldn't have thrown.

RUNNING BACKS (D+)

Didn't run with the quickness or authority exhibited in recent outings. Gerald Riggs was held to 39 yards on 19 carries. Jabari Davis had four carries for 3 yards. Cedric Houston was the lone bright spot with 30 yards on seven carries. Fullback Cory Anderson was not dominant.

OFFENSIVE LINE (C-)

The line prevented Ainge from being sacked once again, but the run blocking has not returned to its Georgia form. Injuries have slowed this unit, but coach Phillip Fulmer is expecting better execution, nonetheless. Tight ends were not a factor. Victor McClure dropped a pass.

RECEIVERS (C-)

Jayson Swain's excellent outing (five catches, 80 yards) aside, there wasn't much else impressive going on. Senior Tony Brown bobbled a catchable ball, resulting in an interception that led to an Alabama touchdown. Downfield blocking has dropped off and there was a hold against the Tide.

DEFENSIVE LINE (A-)

Defensive coordinator John Chavis calls Jesse Mahelona the best tackle in the country, and it's hard to argue. Mahelona, playing with a sprained knee, had two tackles for loss and a sack. Justin Harrell and Turk McBride stepped up, McBride forcing a fumble that led to Parys Haralson's recovery and TD run. Deduction for Haralson's late hit on Tide quarterback.

LINEBACKERS (B+)

Kevin Burnett continued his excellent play, making 11 tackles including one behind the line of scrimmage. Burnett is playing as physical as he is quick. Omar Gaither knifed in and made a big stop late in the game. Jon Poe saw more work and helped to stop the run.

SECONDARY (B+)

Jason Allen made a career-high 15 tackles and was seemingly everywhere. Corey Campbell made the interception to thwart the Tide's final drive. Roshaun Fellows got burned early on a 22-yard gain, but recovered well. Corners gave too much cushion at times.

SPECIAL TEAMS (C+)

James Wilhoit converted his only field-goal attempt, from 40 yards. Dustin Colquitt (40.4) is slumping, and had a 27-yard punt. Derrick Tinsley provided a 45-yard punt return that led to UT's only offensive touchdown. Coverage was adequate.

OVERALL (C)

The defense bailed out the offense once again, and the special teams units avoided being a negative factor. The clock is ticking on UT's SEC East lead; Fulmer admits his offense must step up its production if the Vols are to win the SEC championship.